Light Aircraft Flipped During Landing at Wildwood Due to Frozen Wheel

Casualties unknown • Wildwood, NJ, US

A pilot landed in crosswinds and melting snow conditions. The left main gear wheel was frozen, causing the aircraft to flip over upon touchdown.

What happened

The pilot reported that prior to takeoff, he taxied through several puddles of water resulting from melting snow. At that time, the temperature was reported as 25 degrees Fahrenheit. When he landed at Wildwood, the wind was from 290 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 20 knots, and the temperature was 30 degrees Fahrenheit. He said that when he landed, the tail and right main gear touched down first because he corrected for a slight crosswind. However, when the left main gear touched down, it seemed to be locked. Subsequently, the aircraft flipped over as it slowed down.

The investigation

When the left main gear was checked immediately after the accident, the wheel would not rotate. However, about one hour later, it would rotate. The pilot reported that when the aircraft was turned right side up, about 1/2 cup of water ran out of the wheel cover.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure the landing gear was free of ice before landing, which resulted in a loss of control during touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-02-05 Stinson 108 accident near Wildwood, NJ?

A pilot landed in crosswinds and melting snow conditions. The left main gear wheel was frozen, causing the aircraft to flip over upon touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-02-05 involved a Stinson 108, registration N97202, at Wildwood, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure the landing gear was free of ice before landing, which resulted in a loss of control during touchdown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30315. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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